Celebrating World Menopause Day 2024: Spotlight on FIGO’s Commitment to Women’s Health
As we observe World Menopause Day 2024, an important global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the challenges and health considerations of menopause, it is a fitting time to highlight the newly established Committee on Women at Menopausal Age by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO). This committee is dedicated to enhancing the health and overall well-being of women during and beyond the menopausal transition.
The 2024 Theme: Menopause and Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT)
This year’s theme centers around Menopause and Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT), widely recognized as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). The focus emphasizes promoting the safe and effective use of MHT as a pivotal part of managing menopausal symptoms and preserving long-term health.
Prof. Suvarna Khadilkar, the Chair of the FIGO Committee on Women at Menopausal Health, underscores the significance of MHT: “On World Menopause Day, let’s raise awareness about the benefits of Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT). MHT effectively relieves symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, while improving bone and vaginal health. Careful consideration is essential for women with moderate or high-risk factors. Individualised guidance from healthcare providers can help improve quality of life after menopause.”
Understanding the Role of MHT
Menopause brings forth a range of physical and emotional symptoms due to hormonal changes, which can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. MHT serves as a cornerstone in alleviating these common symptoms, including:
- Hot Flashes: Sudden feelings of heat that spread throughout the body.
- Night Sweats: Episodes of sweating during the night, often leading to disturbed sleep patterns.
- Vaginal Dryness: A common symptom that can lead to discomfort during intimate moments.
Moreover, MHT is instrumental in bolstering long-term health by promoting bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle.
A Holistic Approach to Menopausal Health
While MHT remains a primary focus of the FIGO committee, there is a recognition that menopause is a unique journey for every individual, necessitating a comprehensive and personalized approach to care. The committee promotes several key initiatives designed to empower women and healthcare providers alike:
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Promoting Healthy Ageing: Encouraging self-care through balanced nutrition, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle choices.
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Mental Wellbeing Strategies: Addressing the impact of menopause on mental health and cognitive function, ensuring women have access to the resources they need.
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Enhancing Education for Healthcare Providers: Improving the knowledge and skills of obstetricians and gynecologists to provide high-quality menopausal care.
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Promoting Physical Independence: Advocating for access to mobility devices that support women’s ability to maintain physical independence during menopause.
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Cognitive Health Initiatives: Providing activities that challenge the mind and support cognitive functions.
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Support for Reconstructive Surgeries: Offering surgical options for conditions like pelvic floor disorders, contributing to physical and emotional health.
- Fostering Healthy Relationships: Recognizing the role that interpersonal relationships play in supporting emotional wellness during this life stage.
A Call to Action
FIGO’s commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of menopausal women is not only rooted in the promotion of MHT but also encompasses a holistic approach that speaks to the diverse needs of women. The organization is making a call to healthcare professionals and policymakers to acknowledge the myriad benefits of MHT, as well as the importance of comprehensive care during this critical life phase.
By advocating for MHT and supporting women with personalized guidance, FIGO aims to help elevate global healthcare standards and promote healthy ageing for all. The organization remains committed to raising awareness, improving health outcomes, and enriching the lives of women everywhere.
For further information about the FIGO Committee on Women at Menopausal Age and its initiatives, visit FIGO’s official page.
Conclusion
As we observe World Menopause Day 2024, let us join in recognizing the vital role that education, community support, and healthcare access play in the lives of menopausal women. Together, we can contribute to a world where every woman navigates her menopausal journey with confidence, knowledge, and empowerment.
